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ABSTRACT The objective of this study was to assess the effects of high-concentrate diets with and without the inclusion of soybean hull (SH; 0 or 500.8 g/kg) plus corn (whole or ground) on the performance, morphometric traits, and nutritional and metabolic parameters of crossbred dairy calves. We also aimed to assess the costs associated with the experimental diets employed. Thirty-six male calves with an average weight of 89±18.6 kg and age of 3.5 months were allocated to four treatments, with nine replicates of one calf/pen, in a completely randomized experimental design for 198 days. The inclusion of the SH and the physical form of corn did not influence animal performance or morphometric measurements; however, SH inclusion increased the digestibility of neutral detergent fiber and the intakes of dry matter and neutral detergent fiber, but did not affect total digestible nutrient intake. The physical form of corn did not influence nutrient intake or digestibility, which resulted in similar performance across the animals. Blood glucose levels as well as alkaline phosphatase and creatinine remained elevated regardless of the diet. The use of SH reduced the total plasma cholesterol content, and there was an interaction between the physical form of corn and SH inclusion in relation to creatinine levels, which were higher when using diets with whole corn and SH. Although the inclusion of up to 500.8 g/kg of SH in the diet reduces feed efficiency, its use decreases the cost per kilogram of weight gain. Dairy calves can exhibit satisfactory production performance when fed alternative ingredients such as whole corn or SH, which have a lower cost than ground corn, traditionally used in diet formulations.

ABSTRACT The objective was to evaluate the effect of intensifying dairy systems on the uptake and return of nutrients in pastures. The experiment was conducted using four milk production systems on Mombasa grass pastures in the humid tropics, during the rainy season in 2009. This was a 2 x 2 factorial (two nitrogen fertilization levels and concentrate supplement or not for grazing animals) completely randomized design with four replications (paddocks). Nitrogen levels corresponded to 400 and 800 kg. ha-1.year-1, and supplementation was given to only two out of four groups of animals with milk yield above 11 L. day-1. Pastures fertilized with the highest nitrogen level had higher contents of macronutrients in plant tissues and the litter but resulted in lower concentrations of N and Ca in feces. The uptake of macronutrients per grazing cycle was also higher in these pastures. The supplementation caused a decreasing effect on the content of N in dead pasture material, P in litter, and Ca, Mg, and P in feces. Decomposing litter represents the main source of nutrient return to the pasture, especially calcium, phosphorus, and nitrogen.

ABSTRACT The objective of this study was to assess the effects of two levels of soybean hulls (0 and 400.1 g/kg) and whole or ground corn in the diet of newborn crossbred dairy male calves on intake, performance, blood indicators, and feeding cost. Twenty-eight calves with an average weight of 33.0±6.2 kg and four days of age were distributed into four treatment groups in a completely randomized design (n = 7) for 56 days. Weekly samples of feed, diets, and leftovers were collected to determine dry matter and nutrient intakes. To evaluate apparent digestibility, samples were taken using titanium dioxide as a maker. Blood samples were also collected to evaluate blood indicators. The inclusion of soybean hulls resulted in greater neutral detergent fiber intake by the calves, but reduced their non-fibrous carbohydrates intake, which was also reduced by the use of whole corn in the diet. Although the total digestible nutrients content of diets decreased with the use of whole corn and inclusion of soybean hulls, its intake did not vary (0.75 kg/d), regardless of the factors analyzed. The apparent digestibilities of dry matter (0.87 kg/kg) and crude protein (0.89 kg/kg) were similar, resulting in similar performance between the animals, regardless of the factors analyzed. In the quantities evaluated, the use of soybean hulls or whole corn did not affect blood indicators and was insufficient to reduce feed costs; the cost of daily feed was $2.06, while the cost per kilogram of gain was $3.74. The inclusion of up to 400.1 g/kg of soybean hulls or the replacement of ground corn with whole corn does not affect the performance of crossbred dairy calves during the preweaning period, demonstrating that both can be used in animal feed during this phase of production.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of completely replacing soybean meal (SM) with castor cake detoxified (DCC) with two alkaline products on the nitrogen balance and hepatic and renal function in goat kids. Goat kids of two breeds, Saanen and Anglo Nubian, with an initial body weight of 16.2 ± 0.67 kg, and confined during the growth phase, were used. The treatments consisted of three diets: one based on SM and the other two based on castor cake detoxified with Ca(OH)2 or NaOH. Twenty-four goats kids were distributed in a completely randomized design using a 3 x 2 factorial scheme (diet x breed) with four replicates per combination. The experimental period lasted for 270 days. Consumed nitrogen, fecal nitrogen, urinary nitrogen, retained nitrogen, and nitrogen balance were influenced (p < 0.05) by diets. There was significant effect of diets (p < 0.05) on creatinine, direct bilirubin, urea, alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase and gamma-glutamyltransferase blood levels, however without any negative changes involving renal or hepatic dysfunction. Inclusion of castor cake in the diet of goats kids in confinement is an attractive option, considering that goats kids use does not cause hepatic and renal alterations, suggesting that SM can be completely replaced. NaOH DCC stands in the substitution of soybean meal, because in spite of decreasing the consumption of nitrogen provides the same retention of soybean meal.

ABSTRACT This study evaluated the effects of N/P fertilization on the chemical, mineral composition, and in vitro degradation kinetics of cactus pear cv. Gigante. The research was conducted in Quixadá and Tejuçuoca, CE, Brazil. Nine N/P combinations were evaluated from five levels of N (10, 70, 100, 130, and 190 kg ha−1 year−1), five levels of P2O5 (10, 70, 100, 130, and 190 kg ha−1 year−1), and two harvest frequencies (annual and biannual). The experiment was performed in a split plot completely randomized block design, with four replications. The maximum CP content was obtained in biannual harvest in Quixadá and Tejuçuoca with the combined levels N/P2O5 of 190/190 and 130.03/190 kg ha−1 year−1, respectively. Calcium content was reduced by fertilization, which allowed to reduce the Ca:P ratio to 9.72:1.00 with the N/P2O5 combination at 190/10 kg ha−1 year−1 in the biannual harvest. The increase in N and P levels results in higher S and Mn content and higher digestibility. The annual harvest improves quality in Quixadá. However, it has weaker influence on quality in Tejuçuoca. In Tejuçuoca, Mg, Cu, and Mn contents are lower under annual harvest. Sulfur content is lower under annual harvest in both sites.

This study aimed to evaluate the morphogenic, structural, chemical characteristics, and forage yield of Massai grass, as well as the performance of sheep under three pre-grazing canopy heights. Eighteen Dorper x crossbred sheep (12 males and 6 females) were subjected to three pre-grazing canopy heights of Massai grass (45, 35, and 25 cm). Rotational grazing was adopted, with a fixed rest period of 12 days and occupation of four days. Before placing animals in the paddock, stocking rate was estimated to ensure a reduction of about 50% in the initial height. Morphogenic and chemical characteristics of forage were evaluated, as well as animal intake and performance. Pasture managed at 25 cm height induced reductions in stem and sheath sizes, and phyllochron but an increased leaf: stem ratio. However, the pasture cut at 35 cm above ground promoted an increase in total dry mass and foliar leaf productions, in addition to greater forage availability and daily accumulation. Yet, pastures with a height of 45 cm had a higher percentage of stem and senescent material, decreasing leaf intake by animals. Among the studied heights, 35 cm is the most suitable for Massai grass, when used for rearing sheep for meat production under pasture conditions in the northern Tocantins. This is because this management provided a greater availability of good quality forage and thereby increasing weight gains per area in animals.

Objetivou-se avaliar o valor energético de rações contendo torta de babaçu em substituição ao feno de Tifton-85 (70; 140; 210; 280 e 350 g kg-1 de matéria seca, MS), pela técnica da calorimetria indireta. Foram utilizados 25 ovinos da raça Santa Inês, machos castrados, com peso corporal médio de 49,6 + 9,4 kg, em delineamento inteiramente casualizado. O ensaio experimental foi realizado em câmara respirométrica individual de fluxo aberto para pequenos ruminantes, permanecendo cada animal por período de 24 horas no interior da câmara. Os consumos de energia bruta e energia líquida não foram influenciados pela inclusão da torta. Os consumos de energia digestível e energia metabolizável apresentaram resposta linear, variando de 145,44 a 178,40 e de 121,85 a 158,08 kcal kg-0,75 por dia, respectivamente. As perdas de energia pelas fezes e pelo metano (% do consumo da energia bruta, CEB) apresentaram comportamento linear decrescente, enquanto o incremento calórico, em %CEB, apresentou resposta quadrática. Os valores de energia digestível e metabolizabilidade apresentaram respostas lineares crescentes. A eficiência parcial de uso da energia metabolizável para mantença variou entre 0,71 a 0,81, com resposta quadrática, porém os valores de energia líquida não diferiram. Para cada 10 g de inclusão de subproduto, houve redução de 0,31 g de metano por kg de MS consumida. A inclusão de torta de babaçu, em substituição ao volumoso, na ração de ovinos, em até 350 g kg-1 MS, aumenta a eficiência energética da ração e reduz a emissão de metano pelos animais.

Abstract: The objective of this work was to evaluate the effect of replacing soybean meal (SM) by detoxified castor bean cake (DCC), containing different alkaline solutions, on the nutritional parameters of Saanen and Anglo-Nubian female goat (Capra aegagrus hircus) kids. The treatments consisted of three diets: one based on corn and SM; and two with DCC with Ca(OH)2 or NaOH. Intake and digestibility data were analyzed in two phases according to the growth curves of the goats, which showed: a linear accelerated growth (phase I, from 60 to 298 days of life) and a reduction in the intensity of body growth (phase II, from 299 to 345 days). During phase I, the goat kids fed DCC with NaOH showed a lower intake of dry matter (DM) and nutrients. During phase II, there was significant effect of diets on the intake of nutrients, with the exception of ether extract (EE), total digestible nutrients, and metabolizable energy (ME). A diet effect was observed on the digestibility of DM, crude protein, EE, and neutral detergent fiber, mainly for goat kids fed diets with DCC. Despite their lower intake, the diets formulated with DCC do not negatively affect the nutritional performance of female goats kids in both growth phases, since they result in a greater feed efficiency.

Objetivou-se avaliar a influência da substituição do farelo de soja (FS) pela torta de mamona destoxificada (TMD) por dois produtos alcalinos sobre o consumo, desempenho e na curva de crescimento de cabritas de aptidão leiteira. Foram utilizadas 24 cabras, Saanen (n=12) e Anglo Nubiana (n=12), com peso corporal inicial de 16,2±0,67 kg, idade inicial de 3 meses e confinadas durante a fase de crescimento. Os tratamentos consistiram de três dietas: dieta padrão formulada com uma fonte proteica tradicional, o farelo de soja (FS); e dietas testes, que consistiram de uma fonte proteica alternativa, diferindo os processos de destoxificação, à base de hidróxido de cálcio (Ca (OH)2) ou hidróxido de sódio (NaOH). Os animais foram distribuídos em delineamento inteiramente casualizado, em esquema fatorial 3 x 2 (dieta FS, TMD Ca(OH)2 e TMD NaOH x raça Saanen e Anglo Nubiana) perfazendo seis sessões com quatro repetições cada. O período experimental durou 270 dias. Os modelos não-lineares utilizados foram os de Gompertz e Logístico. Houve efeito (P < 0,05) das dietas sobre o consumo dos nutrientes, porém não houve efeito (P > 0,05) das raças e interação entre ambos os fatores. O consumo de MS durante a fase de crescimento foi maior para as cabras alimentadas com FS. Não houve efeito (P > 0,05) das dietas nem das raças no GMD. A conversão alimentar foi influenciada (P < 0,05) pelas dietas, em que as cabras que consumiram as dietas com TMD apresentaram melhor conversão alimentar. Observou-se que ambos os modelos tiveram bons ajustes, com valores numericamente superiores a 90%, contudo, o modelo Logístico apresentou maior R2 e, ao mesmo tempo, índice assintótico (IA). Apesar do GMD ser igual, as raças apresentaram taxa de crescimento absoluto (TCA) diferenciado ao longo do tempo, onde as cabras Saanen atingiram o pico primeiro (181 dias), com TCA de 0,14 kg dia-1. Porém, mesmo as cabras Anglo Nubianas atingindo o pico mais tardiamente, a TCA foi maior, cerca de 0,16 kg dia-1 superior às Saanen. Ambas as tortas tem potencial de substituir o FS em dieta de cabritas de aptidão leiteira durante a fase de crescimento. O modelo matemático Logístico estima de forma mais precisa o crescimento de cabras Saanen e Anglo Nubiana, sendo que a taxa de crescimento absoluto é maior em cabras Anglo Nubianas.

ABSTRACT The objective of this study was to evaluate performance, apparent digestibility, blood parameters, and quantitative characteristics of carcass and internal organs of crossbred dairy calves fed different levels of crude glycerin in corn grain-based diets. Twenty-four calves of three months of age and average initial weight of 95.5±11.8 kg were used. The experimental design was completely randomized with four treatments (0, 80, 160, and 240 g kg−1 of crude glycerin of DM of diets). The calves were fed in feedlot until six months of age (195.68±2.38 kg of BW). Dry matter (4.14, 4.11, 3.80, and 3.49 kg day−1) and apparent digestible energy intake (0.43, 0.41, 0.37, and 0.35 MJ kg−1 BW) decreased with increasing levels of glycerin in the diets. There was no effect on the apparent digestibility of nutrients, average daily gain, feed efficiency, carcass characteristics, and blood parameters. The diets did not influence the weights [g kg−1 of empty body weight (EBW)] of lungs, heart, kidneys, liver, omasum, abomasum, and large intestine. The reticulorumen weight (g kg−1 EBW) increased, whereas the small intestine weight decreased with increased levels of glycerin in the diets. The area, height, and width of the rumen papillae were not changed with increasing levels of glycerin. The rumen wall thickness increased with increasing levels of glycerin in the diets. The inclusion up to 240 g kg−1 DM of crude glycerin of in corn grain-based diets for the production of dairy calves does not alter animal performance, carcass characteristics, and weights of internal organs.

Avaliou-se a influência da total substituição do farelo de soja (FS) pela torta de mamona destoxificada (TMD) por dois produtos alcalinos sobre a viabilidade econômico-financeira na produção de matrizes leiteiras das raças Saanen e Anglo Nubiana, com peso corporal inicial de 16,22 ± 0,67 kg confinadas até a formação de matrizes aptas a reprodução (70% do peso vivo corporal). Foram simulados seis sistemas de produção (SP), sendo: SP1, criação de cabritas Saanen alimentadas com dieta padrão à base de FS; SP2, criação de cabritas Anglo Nubianas alimentadas com dieta padrão à base de FS; SP3, criação de cabritas Saanen alimentadas com dieta à base de TMD Ca(OH)2; SP4, criação de cabritas Anglo Nubianas alimentadas com dieta à base de TMD Ca(OH)2; SP5, criação de cabritas Saanen alimentadas com dieta à base de TMD NaOH; SP6, criação de cabritas Anglo Nubianas alimentadas com dieta à base de TMD NaOH. A avaliação econômico-financeira dos dados foi realizada de forma descritiva, utilizando-se o software AVETEC®. Os maiores custos com alimentação foram observados nos sistemas que utilizaram as dietas a base de FS, cerca de 58,70% para as cabras Saanen e 66,22% para as Anglo Nubianas. A simulação para produção de 144 matrizes leiteiras proporcionou receita superior aos custos de produção, resultando em indicadores econômicos positivos para todos os cenários avaliados. Observou-se que todos os cenários tiveram ponto de nivelamento (PN) inferior a 144 cabras que é a quantidade de animais que podem ser produzidas anualmente para cada sistema simulado nesta pesquisa. A receita líquida de todos os sistemas foi maior que zero, o que indica que a atividade é estável, apresentando altas taxas internas de retorno. Da mesma forma, os índices de lucratividade são bem atrativos, principalmente os sistemas que optarem pela cria de cabras da raça Saanen, onde os VPLs são superiores há um milhão de reais. As análises de sensibilidade mostraram que apenas nas situações mais desfavoráveis, tais como a redução de 30% tanto na produção quanto no preço de mercado, os indicadores são economicamente inviáveis. O uso das TMD não compromete a viabilidade econômica dos sistemas, porém quando comparados aos sistemas que utiliza a dieta padrão, apresentam menor rentabilidade.

ABSTRACT The objective was to evaluate the intake, digestibility, nitrogen balance, and metabolic profile of lactating goats fed diets containing detoxified castor cake (DCC) by alkaline solutions during 150 days of lactation. Twenty-four Saanen and Anglo Nubian goats, approximately 17 months old (first lactation) and body weights of 43±2.97 kg, were distributed in a completely randomized block design with eight replicates. Treatments consisted of three diets, one containing soybean meal (SM) and two others containing DCC, with calcium hydroxide [Ca(OH)2] and sodium hydroxide (NaOH). The diets significantly influenced the intake of dry matter (DM), crude protein (CP), ether extract (EE), neutral detergent fiber (NDF), and total digestible nutrients (TDN). We observed a higher dry matter intake (DMI) in goats fed SM, similar to that of goats fed Ca(OH)2 DCC. Intake of nutrients followed the same trend as DMI. There was no significant effect of diets on digestibility of DM, CP, EE, and NDF; however, we observed a significant effect of diets on the levels of nitrogen intake (NI) and urinary nitrogen (UN). The goats fed SM consumed a larger quantity of nitrogen, but all had the same nitrogen balance, indicating that goats fed DCC were more efficient. The diets did not influence renal and hepatic parameters. Inclusion of castor cake in the diet of goats in confinement is an attractive option, considering that goats fed DCC present lower feed conversion, and its use does not cause hepatic and renal alterations, suggesting that SM can be completely replaced.

ABSTRACT The use of agro-industrial by-products in feeding ruminants has nutritional, environmental and economic advantages, and helps to sustain the production system. The aim of this study was to evaluate the nutritional value of diets containing babassu cake as a substitute for Tifton-85 hay (70, 140, 210, 280 and 350 g kg-1 dry matter: DM). Twenty-five castrated male sheep with a mean body weight of 49.6 ± 9.4 kg were used, distributed in metabolic cages in a completely randomised design. Voluntary intake was obtained from the difference between the amount of feed provided and the leftovers the following morning. To evaluate nutrient digestibility and nitrogen (N) balance, samples of urine and faeces were collected separately. There was no effect on DM intake; however, crude protein (CP) and ether extract intake increased linearly increased linearly. The addition of babassu cake had no effect on DM digestibility (mean value of 604.6 ± 272.8 g kg-1). Apparent CP digestibility and total digestible nutrient content showed increasing linear behaviour, while the digestibility of acid detergent fibre decreased linearly. The level of retained N varied from 9.72 ± 1.12 to 15.51 ± 1.84 g day-1 with the ratio to ingested N ranging from 521.0 ± 26.7 to 578.4 ± 31.8 g kg-1 N. The addition of babassu cake to replace the roughage, increased the nutritional value of the diet. Babassu cake can be included up to a total of 350 g kg-1 DM in the diet as a substitute for Tifton-85 hay.

ABSTRACT We aimed to evaluate the lactation curves, composition, and fatty acid profile of milk of lactating goats fed diets containing detoxified castor cake (DCC) by alkaline solutions during 150 days of lactation. Twenty-four Saanen and Anglo Nubian goats, approximately 17 months old (first lactation) and 43±2.97 kg body weight, were distributed in a completely randomized block design with eight replicates. Treatments consisted of three diets, one containing soybean meal (SM) and two others containing DCC, with calcium hydroxide [Ca(OH)2] and sodium hydroxide (NaOH). The lactation curves showed greater persistence of lactation in Saanen goats. There were significant effects of diets on the profile of some fatty acids present in the milk. We observed that the NaOH DCC diet led to an increase in desirable fatty acid content. Both Ca(OH)2 and NaOH DCC diets led to decreased milk production during the lactation period; however, the NaOH DCC diet led to high productive efficiency. Furthermore, NaOH DCC did not negatively affect the desirable fatty acid content, unlike Ca(OH)2 DCC. Diets formulated with detoxified castor decrease the production of milk from goats during lactation phase. It should be emphasized that milk produced by goats fed DCC diets does not contain unwanted waste.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the influence of replacing soybean meal (SM) with castor bean cake (DCC), detoxified using two alkaline products, on the feeding behavior and physiological parameters of Saanen and Anglo-Nubian goat breeds with an initial body weight of 16.22 ± 0.67 kg. The treatments consisted of three diets that were isoproteic and isoenergetic: the first with a standard formulation based on corn and SM, the second with DCC detoxified using calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)2 DCC), and the third with DCC detoxified using sodium hydroxide (NaOH DCC). A completely randomized design with a 3 × 2 (diets and breeds) factorial arrangement and four replicates per combination was used. A dietary effect on the intake of dry matter (DM) and NDFap (P = 0.02 and 0.01) was observed, with lower values for goats fed NaOH DCC than the other diets. The diets influenced feeding and rumination times (P = 0.04 and 0.03). An interaction (P = 0.04 and 0.01) between the breeds and the SM-based diet was found for time variables (other activity and idle time). Increased feeding and neutral detergent fiber (NDF) rumination efficiencies were observed for goats fed SM and Ca(OH)2 DCC (P = 0.03 and 0.01). Goats fed the NaOH DCC diet consumed large amounts of water, while Saanen goats urinated more times than did Anglo-Nubian goats. The diets had an effect on the heart rate and rectal temperature (P = 0.01 and 0.02), while the body surface temperature was influenced by the breed. Thus, Ca(OH)2 or NaOH DCC has a great potential to replace SM in the feeding of dairy goats. When used as diet for goats in the growth phase, NaOH DCC causes a reduction of DM and NDF intakes. Neither DCC negatively affected the physiological parameters of goats.

Abstract: The objective of this work was to evaluate the effects of combined phosphorus and nitrogen fertilization and of harvesting frequency on the chemical composition of 'Gigante' cactus pear (Opuntia ficus-indica) cladodes. The experiment was carried out in two municipalities, Quixadá and Tejuçuoca, in the state of Ceará, Brazil. Fertilization with nitrogen (urea) and phosphorus (single superphosphate) was done with nine doses, respectively: 10 and 70, 70 and 10, 70 and 70, 70 and 130, 100 and 100, 130 and 70, 130 and 130, 130 and 190, and 190 and 130 kg ha-1 per year, besides 100 kg ha-1 N and P2O5 per year as the control. The harvesting frequencies evaluated were annual and biannual. A randomized complete block design was adopted, in split plot, with four replicates. The effect of fertilization on the contents of total dry matter, crude protein, neutral detergent fiber, organic matter, and total carbohydrates in the cladodes varies with harvesting frequency and site. Regarding harvesting frequency, there were higher contents of organic matter, total carbohydrates, and neutral detergent fiber, but lower contents of crude protein for the biannual harvesting in both municipalities. Annual harvesting improves the nutritional quality of primary and secondary cladodes in the municipality of Quixadá and of secondary and tertiary cladodes in Tejuçuoca.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the density and phenotypical diversity of diazotrophic endophytic bacteria from the forage palm irrigated with different saline water depths. Opuntia stricta (IPA-200016) received five depths of saline water (L1: 80%. ETo; L2: 60%.ETo; L3: 40%; ETo; L4: 20%; ETo and, L5: 0% ETo, where ETo is the reference evapotranspiration). The roots were collected in the field, disinfected, grounded and serial diluted from 10-1 to 10-4. The total concentration of diazotrophic bacteria was determined by the most probable number method (MPN) and the isolated bacteria were characterized phenotipically. The concentration of bacteria found in forage palm roots ranged from 0.36 x 104 to 109.89 104 cells per gram of root, with highest occurrence on the 60 and 80% ETo. In the dendrogram of similarity it was possible to observe the formation of 24 phenotypic groups with 100% similarity. All bacteria presented similarity superior to 40%. Among these groups, 14 are rare groups, formed by only a single bacterial isolate. In the Semi-Arid conditions, the forage palm that receives the highest amount of saline water, presents a higher density of putative nitrogen-fixing endophytic bacteria with high phenotypic diversity.

This study evaluated the inclusion of increasing contents (0; 35; 70; 105 and 140 g kg-1) of dried acerola fruit (Malpighia glabra, Linn.) by-product (DABP) in the ensilage of elephant grass (Pennisetum purpureum, Schum.) considering the in situ degradability of dry matter (DM), crude protein (CP), neutral detergent fiber (NDF), acid detergent fiber (ADF) and hemicellulose. Plastic drums with 210 L capacity were used as experimental silos. After 45 days of ensiling, silos were opened and silage samples were collected for the degradability trial and laboratory analysis. For the in situ degradability trial, was used one rumen-fistulated adult male cattle. The five by-product inclusion contents were tested in three replicates, with five incubation times, in a randomized complete split-plot design in which the contents of DABP were the treatments (plots), the different silos were the replicates and the incubation times were the sub-plots. Longer incubation times significantly increased (P < 0.05) the disappearance rates of DM, CP, NDF, ADF and hemicellulose. The effective degradability of the DM, NDF and hemicellulose was higher in the silages with 35 g kg-1 of DABP in the rumen passage rates of 0.02; 0.05 and 0.08 h-1. Dried acerola fruit by-product can be added to elephant grass ensiling up to 35 g kg-1 without reducing the effective degradability of nutrients.

Resumo: Objetivou-se avaliar o desempenho animal, as características de carcaça e a qualidade da carne de novilhos e novilhas F1 Angus-Nelore terminados em confinamento com similar grau de acabamento de carcaça. O delineamento experimental foi o inteiramente casualizado, com dois tratamentos (novilhos e novilhas) e 11 repetições (animais). Foram utilizados 22 bovinos com 18 meses de idade inicial, 11 novilhos e 11 novilhas, com peso corporal inicial de 354,86±43,66 e 353,82±39,80 kg, respectivamente. Os animais foram terminados em confinamento (114 dias) com dieta contendo 200 g kg-1 de silagem de milho e 800 g kg-1 de concentrado composto principalmente por grão de milho moído e farelo de soja. O consumo de matéria seca (9,42 vs. 9,24 kg dia-1), o ganho de peso médio diário (1,44 vs. 1,38 kg dia-1), a conversão alimentar (6,49 vs. 7,05 kg de matéria seca kg-1 de ganho de peso), o peso de carcaça quente (284,62 vs. 268,16 kg) e a espessura de gordura subcutânea (12,09 vs. 13,05 mm) foram similares entre novilhos e novilhas (respectivamente). O rendimento de carcaça quente foi maior (P < 0,05) nos novilhos (58,14 vs. 55,53%). Os novilhos apresentaram maior proporção de dianteiro (39,26 vs. 37,53%), enquanto as novilhas apresentaram maior proporção do traseiro especial (49,87 vs. 48,85%). A carne dos novilhos apresentou coloração mais escura (P < 0,05). A força de cisalhamento da carne e o marmoreio não diferiram entre as condições sexuais, com valores médios de, 5,43 kgf cm-2 e 10,14 pontos (mediano), respectivamente. Exceto em relação à proporção dos cortes primários, rendimento de carcaça e cor da carne, novilhas jovens F1 Angus-Nelore apresentam similar desempenho animal, características de carcaça e de carne em relação aos novilhos abatidos com similar grau de acabamento.

Assessment of carcass and meat characteristics of Holstein-Zebu crossbred young bulls finished in feedlot with crude glycerin levels (0, 60, 120, and 240 g kg-1 dry matter) in replace of ground pearl millet grain and babassu mesocarp bran mixture-based diets. Twenty four bulls 30-month-old and initial average body weight of 390 ± 31.5 kg were used. The animals were distributed in a completely randomized design with four treatments and six replicates. The absolute weight (kg) of commercial cuts did not fit any of the tested regression models. However, the weight of the short ribs and the pistol cut were higher for animals fed with crude glycerin in relation to those fed without inclusion of this food in the diet. The proportion of the commercial cuts, however, was not changed. The increase of the crude glycerin levels linearly increased the proportion of carcass fat and reduced the muscle proportion, without changing the proportion of bone and the edible portion of the carcasses. The ratio muscle/fat reduced linearly with the advance of crude glycerin level of diets. The color of the meat, evaluated subjectively, increased linearly with the advance of crude glycerin levels of the diets, from dark red to slightly dark red. The texture, marbling, shear force, thawing loss and cooking loss were not changed by dietary levels of crude glycerin. The inclusion of up to 240 g kg-1 of crude glycerin in the diets increases the proportion of fat without changing the marketable portion of carcasses. The benefits to the meat quality refer to the improvement of color, without changing the other characteristics of economic interest.

Assessment of carcass and meat characteristics of Nellore young bulls finished in feedlot with crude glycerin levels (0, 60, 120, and 240 g kg-1 dry matter) in millet-based diets. Twenty-eight young bulls with mean age of 18 months and average weight of 357 ± 23.56 kg were used. The animals were distributed in a completely randomized design with four treatments and seven replicates. It was observed that the physical composition and edible portion of the carcass were not affected by crude glycerin levels in the diets. However, the increased dietary crude glycerin level raised the weights of the forequarters (kg and % of cold carcass weight), but not that of the pistol cut and short ribs. Among the commercial cuts prepared to marketing of the pistol cut, only the weight of the rump cap (% cold carcass weight) was changed, decreasing linearly with increasing dietary crude glycerin levels. Additionally, meat characteristics remained unaltered by the increased levels of crude glycerin. It was concluded that inclusion of up to 240 g kg-1 of crude glycerin in millet grain-based diets for Nellore young bulls finished in feedlot does not alter the main carcass and meat characteristics or affect their economic value.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the in situ degradability of dry matter (DM), crude protein (CP), neutral detergent fiber (NDF), acid detergent fiber (ADF), and hemicellulose of elephant grass (Pennisetumpurpureum, Schum.) with increasing levels (0; 35.0; 70.0, 105.0, and 140.0 g kg-1) of dried pineapple (Ananascomosus, L.) by-product (DPBP). The experimental silos consisted of plastic drums with 210 L capacity. After weighing and homogenizing the elephant grass with the DABP, the material was inserted in the silos (126 kg silage, at a density of 600 kg m-3) and compressed. After 45 days of ensilage, silos were opened and samples of the silages were collected for the trial. The study of degradability in situ was conducted using a rumen-fistulated male cattle. The animal was fed with corn silage supplemented with 1 kg concentrate daily. Five levels of addition of the by-product were tested, with three replicates and five times of incubation with an animal. The experimental design was completely randomized with split plots, in which the proportions of DPBP were the treatments (plots), the different silos were the replicates, and the incubation times were the subplots. The levels of inclusion of DPBP provided an increase (P < 0.05) in disappearance of DM and CP and in the effective degradability of DM, NDF, ADF, and hemicellulose. The dried pineapple by-product is a potential alternative to be used as additive in the ensilage of elephant grass, as it provides an increase in the rumen degradability parameters.

ABSTRACT The objective of this study was to assess the effects of including crude glycerin in the diet on intake, performance, rumen development, and carcass traits of dairy crossbred veal calves fed starter concentrate containing 0, 80, 160, and 240 g kg−1 crude glycerin. Twenty-eight calves with an average weight of 38.03±6.7 kg and five days of age were distributed in a completely randomized design with four treatments with seven replications. Calves were individually housed in covered stalls equipped with feeders and drinkers for 56 days. The calf response to inclusion of crude glycerin in the concentrate changed over the weeks and the inclusion level of 240 g kg−1 resulted in greater dry matter intake and average daily gain. There was no effect on the final weight and total weight gain of the animals, with mean values of 73.60 and 35.16 kg, respectively. The weight of the rumen-reticulum adjusted for body weight, empty body weight, and total stomach weight increased linearly with the inclusion of crude glycerin. Blood total protein, globulin, urea, cholesterol, gamma glutamyl transferase, aspartate aminotransferase, and alkaline phosphatase concentrations did not differ among treatments. Carcass traits and meat color were not affected. Crude glycerin can be added to dairy calf starter concentrate up to 240 g kg−1 dry matter because it benefits concentrate intake, performance, and rumen development without affecting animal health.

Assessment of carcass physical composition and physicochemical characteristics of meat from Nellore males distributed randomly into three treatments: males castrated at 13 months of age at puberty (n=26); castrated at 18 months of age, 15 days before confinement (n=26); and young bulls (n=25). For the evaluation of meat chemical characteristics, we used samples of 12 animals taken at random from each treatment. The experimental design was completely randomized. Animals were slaughtered at 22 months of age after 100 days of confinement. The carcasses of young bulls showed higher contents of muscle (66.46 %) and bone (16.03 %), and lower fat content (17.66 %), in relation to that of steers castrated at 13 (62.83,15.28, and 22.11 %, respectively) or 18 months (63.99, 15.29, and 21.53%, respectively), which did not differ amongst themselves. The meat of young bulls was darker (3.07 points) than the meat from those castrated at 13 months of age (3.43 points), while the meat from those castrated at 18 months displayed an intermediate color (3.29 points), not differing from the others. Young bulls yielded meat with lower content of intramuscular fat (3.18 points) and lipids (3.81%) in relation to those castrated at 13 (4.58 points and 6.77%, respectively) or 18 months (4.52 points and 5.66%, respectively). Protein content was higher (P 0.05) by the age of castration, with young bulls having lower values in relation to the castrated males. Castration of Nellore young bulls in early puberty increases the edible portion of the carcass due to the higher body fat deposit.

This study aimed to evaluate carcass and meat characteristics of feedlot-finished steers of dairy origin fed with pearl millet grain-based diets, containing inclusion levels of babassu mesocarp bran (BMB) (0, 12, 24, 36 and 48%). A total of 30 Holstein-Zebu crossbred steers with an average initial weight of 371.02 ± 27 kg were randomly divided into six groups fed with different experimental diets (five pearl millet-based diets containing inclusion levels of BMB and one standard corn-based diet). Each diet had five replications. Isonitrogenous diets had a roughage/concentrate ratio of 20/80. BMB inclusion level in the diet reduced slaughter and carcass weight from 488.4 and 242.2 kg to 454.0 and 226.7 kg, respectively. The subcutaneous fat thickness, conformation, and pistol cut weight were also reduced to 38.8, 13.6, and 9%, respectively, as the BMB inclusion level in the diet increased. Meat characteristics were not affected by BMB inclusion levels in the diet. Regarding carcass and meat characteristics, no difference was observed in the analysis of contrasts between BMB diets and corn- or millet-based diets, or between corn- or millet-based diets. The inclusion of BMB in millet-based diets should consider the cost/benefit ratio, as it reduces slaughter and carcass weight, while the main meat characteristics remain unchanged. However, total substitution of corn by millet grains in feedlot diets does not alter bovine carcass and meat characteristics.

Industrialization of the Babassu coconut for edible oil production generates many co-products and has great potential to be used in ruminant nutrition. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of different inclusions of endocarp meal type II of Babassu coconut (BEMII) on intake and digestibility of sheep diets. Twenty non-castrated male sheep with an undefined breed were distributed in a completely randomized design with four treatments and five replications. The animals received an experimental diet with increasing inclusions of BEMII (0.0%, 7.5%, 15.0%, and 22.5%). Increasing additions of the coproduct negatively influenced dry matter intake (g/BW and g/kg0.75). Crude protein intake (in grams) per day decreased linearly with the inclusion of BEMII, presenting a reduction of 49.35 g/d. The inclusion of 7.5% showed the best response for energy balance among all inclusions and presented the closest nitrogen balance value when compared to the control group; therefore, this inclusion percentage is the best for endocarp meal utilization.

ABSTRACT - The objective of this study was to find the best level of inclusion of crude glycerin (0, 60, 120, and 240 g kg−1 of dry matter of diet) in substitution of pearl millet in a feedlot diet. Twenty-eight Nellore young bulls with mean age of 18 months and average weight of 357±23.56 kg were used. The animals were distributed in a completely randomized design with four treatments and seven replications. The intakes of dry matter, crude protein, neutral detergent fiber, and total digestible nutrients were similar among the dietary levels of crude glycerin. The ether extract intake decreased with increase in the levels of crude glycerol in the diets. Apparent digestibility of dry matter, crude protein, and extract ether was similar among the dietary crude glycerin levels. Apparent digestibility of neutral detergent fiber was lower in the diets with inclusion of crude glycerin in relation the other diets. The increase in the levels of crude glycerin did not affect the total digestible nutrients content of the diets. Average daily gain increased linearly with the increase in crude glycerin. Feed conversion was not altered by the increase in the levels of crude glycerin in the diets. The dietary increase in crude glycerin level did not affect the carcass characteristics. The inclusion of up to 240 g kg−1 of crude glycerin in pearl millet grain-based diets for feedlot-finished Nellore young bulls increases average daily gain, but does not change the main carcass characteristics of economic importance.

ABSTRACT This study was conducted to evaluate the intake, apparent digestibility (AD), and degradability in situ of elephant grass (Pennisetum purpureum Schum) silages containing 0, 35.0, 70.0, 105.0, and 140.0 g kg-1 by-product from dried cashew apple (DCBP) (as fed basis). A completely randomized design with four replicates was adopted. For the study of degradability in situ, one adult male cattle was used in a completely randomized design with split plots. Intake and AD of dry matter (DM), crude protein (CP), neutral detergent fiber (NDF), acid detergent fiber (ADF), hemicellulose, and cellulose were evaluated, and the digestible energy (DE) and nitrogen balance (NB) of the silages were determined. The degradability in situ of DM, CP, and NDF was also determined. Addition of DCBP provided an increase in the intakes of DM, CP, NDF, and ADF. No effects of the levels of addition of DCBP were observed on the coefficients of AD of the silages. Regarding NB, positive values were only detected in the treatment with 105.0 g kg-1 DCBP. In the analysis of the degradability in situ, the incubation periods increased the rates of disappearance of DM, CP, and NDF. However, no effect of the levels of DCBP were observed on the effective degradability of DM. The by-product from dried cashew apple can be included at up to 140.0 g kg-1 in silages of elephant grass, but the high contents of acid detergent insoluble nitrogen may compromise the use and availability of nitrogen to the animals.

ABSTRACT The objective of this study was to evaluate the feeding behavior and feedlot productive performance of dairy-origin steers fed for 84 days ground pearl millet grain-based diets with 0, 120, 240, 360, and 480 g kg-1 of babassu mesocarp bran (BMB) and a standard diet based on ground corn. Thirty Holstein-Zebu steers with average initial body weight of 371.02±27 kg were used. The experimental design was completely randomized, with five replications. Dry matter intake showed better fit with the quadratic regression equation with the inclusion of BMB, reaching a maximum value in diets with 360 g of this by-product. There was no difference for dry matter intake between pearl millet- and corn-based diets. There was no difference in total digestible nutrients intake between diets. The digestibility coefficient of organic matter decreased linearly with the increase in the dietary level of BMB. The digestibility coefficient of organic matter was not different between corn and millet diets. There was no difference in feeding time between diets. Total requirement of metabolizable energy increased linearly with inclusion of BMB. However, total requirements of metabolizable energy did not differ between the corn- and pearl millet-based diets. Average daily gain decreased linearly with the increase in BMB, with adjustment forced by the sharp decline of this variable in diets with 480 g of BMB. There was no difference in average daily gain between corn- and pearl millet-based diets. The inclusion of levels above 360 g of babassu mesocarp bran in pearl millet-based diets reduces the supply of metabolizable energy and the productive performance of feedlot dairy steers.

Objetivou-se avaliar o efeito do peso de abate sobre o desempenho animal, cortes comerciais da carcaça e características da carne de vacas Purunã terminadas em confinamento. Foram utilizadas 28 vacas de descarte com 68,02±17,36 meses de idade abatidas com pesos distintos (434; 461; 476 e 522 kg). O delineamento experimental foi o inteiramente casualizado com quatro tratamentos (pesos de abate) e sete repetições (animais). O consumo de matéria seca, expresso em kg dia-1 e % do peso corporal, apresentou variação quadrática em função do avanço do peso de abate, sendo os maiores valores observados para o peso de abate de 461 kg. O ganho de peso médio diário diminuiu linearmente, enquanto que o peso absoluto do dianteiro, ponta de agulha e traseiro especial aumentou linearmente com avanço do peso de abate. Em termos relativos somente o corte ponta de agulha foi alterado pelo avanço do peso de abate, aumentando linearmente. Entre as proporções dos cortes cárneos preparados para comercialização, elevações lineares foram verificadas para o acém e contra filé. O aumento do peso de abate promoveu incrementos lineares nos escores de coloração, marmoreio e palatabilidade, mas não alterou a maciez da carne. O avanço do peso de abate de vacas de descarte da raça Purunã reduz o desempenho animal, aumentando as perdas pelo recorte de gordura, com benefícios importantes apenas para a palatabilidade da carne.

O objetivo foi quantificar, descrever e identificar zonas de extração de nutrientes pela fitomassa da Brachiaria brazantha cv. Marandu em sistemas de integração floresta-pasto em região de transição Cerrado-Amazônia sobre Neossolo Quartzarênico Órtico típico, por meio de técnicas de geoestatística, de análise de componentes principais e da lógica de agrupamento não hierárquica de fuzzy k-médias. As avaliações foram realizadas em dois sistemas de integração floresta-pasto originários da associação de Brachiaria brizantha cv. Marandu e vegetação nativa raleada com 50% e 75% (IFP-I e IFP-II, respectivamente) de sombreamento e em pastagem de Brachiaria brizantha cv. Marandu em monocultivo. Para cada tratamento foi demarcada uma área de 4.000 m² (40 x 100 m) que continham 32 pontos de coleta dispostos em malha de 4 x 25 m. Em cada ponto previamente marcado nos tratamentos avaliados se estimou as taxas de alongamento de lâminas foliares, senescência foliar e de alongamento de colmo. Ao final de cada ciclo produtivo foram determinados nas lâminas foliares e no colmo os teores de nutrientes (N, P, K, Ca e Mg. A extração de nutrientes foi calculada em função das taxas de produção bruta de forragem, de acúmulo de forragem e de folhas. Zonas de extração de nutrientes minerais pela fitomassa da Brachiaria brizantha cv. Marandu são definidas utilizando-se técnicas de geoestatística, de análise de componentes principais e da lógica de agrupamento não hierárquica de fuzzy k-médias. Assim o uso desses procedimentos é viável na definição e delimitação de zonas homogêneas dentro e entre os sistemas de produção de gramínea estudados.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the preference of forage intake on pastures subjected to doses of N. The experimental design was a randomized blocks, with split plots in 5 x 3, five N rates (0, 25, 50, 75 and 100 kg ha-1 cycle-1) and three instant of grazing (mass initial estimates) and 5 x 2, five N rates and two instants of grazing (estimates related to the disappearance of forage), with four replications, totaling 20 experimental units. The preference for consumption was measured morphogenesis, based on the flow of bodies missing in function of grazing time of grazing. The forage intake showed a linear response to N supply, with a significant reduction in herbage mass values over 6 occupation period to 12 hours of the plots, demonstrating selective grazing on increase doses of N. Marandu-gass are not fertilized only grazed when forage mass in the larger N application rate falls due to the grazing time. The herbage disappearancee in the lower stratum also responded linearly to N in the first 6 hours of grazing, while the forage disappearance of the upper stratum responded quadratically to N supply. The probability of defoliation was different (P

This study aimed to assess the rumen papillae keratinization, cellular levels of liver and muscle glycogen, and the chemical composition of meat from feedlot-finished Nellore young bulls fed with levels of concentrate and babassu mesocarp bran. Twenty-eight animals with initial age of 21 months and initial body weight of 356.7 ± 19 kg were randomized to the following treatments: two levels of concentrate in the diet (65% and 71%), with or without inclusion of 35% of babassu mesocarp bran. Fragments of liver, muscle and rumen were obtained after slaughter of the animals. Levels of concentrate and babassu mesocarp bran in the diet did not affect the quantities of liver and muscle glycogen, and did not induce hyperkeratinization of rumen papillae. The chemical composition of the meat was not affected by the studied factors. The inclusion of 35% babassu mesocarp bran in high concentrate diets does not induce hyperkeratinization of rumen papillae, and does not change the amount of muscle and liver glycogen or the chemical characteristics of meat of Nellore young bulls.

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of different additions of flour I endocarp of babassu on consumption and digestibility in diets. Twenty uncastrated male sheep were distributed in a completely ran-domized into four treatments with five replicates per treatment. The animals received experimental diets isoca-loric and isonitrogenous (zero, 7.5%, 15%, 22.5%). The dry matter intake as a function of body weight and metabolic weight decreased linearly with the inclusion of flour I Endocarp in the diet. The apparent digestibil-ity coefficients demonstrate the occurrence of a linear decrease with the inclusion of by-product in the diet. Nitrogen balance was positive with all inclusion levels, decreasing with larger inclusions in a linear response. The inclusion of this byproduct promotes change in score of the feces. The flour endocarp I of babassu present-ed the typical features of consumption and digestibility of forages. The inclusion of by-product in diets for lambs should stand at 7.5% inclusion.

The objective of the present study was to evaluate the effects of corn milling and the inclusion of babassu mesocarp bran (BMB) on productive performance, digestibility of dietary nutrients, and blood parameters of dairy crossbred (Holstein-Gyr) bulls finished in confinement. Twenty-four bulls were fed four different experimental diets, containing two levels of inclusion of BMB (0 and 41.24%) and corn supplied in two different forms (ground and whole), for 98 days (77 days of data collection and 21 days of adaptation). The intakes and digestibility coefficients of the dry matter (DM) and nutrients were determined. There were no significant interaction effects of the BMB inclusion level and the form of corn used on the performance and digestibility variables. The intakes of DM, crude protein (CP), and neutral detergent fibre (NDF) increased with the inclusion of BMB in the diets. However, the inclusion of BMB in the diets decreased the ether extract intake, the NDF apparent digestibility, and the feed efficiency of DM and CP. Dry matter and NDF intakes also increased with the use of ground corn in the diet, which promoted an increase in the intake of total digestible nutrients (TDN), digestibility of non-fibrous carbohydrates, and average daily gain. However, the supply of ground corn reduced the feed efficiency of TDN. The remaining measured variables did not vary with the tested diets. The levels of plasma protein and albumin remained normal, but glucose concentrations were always high, irrespective of the tested diet. The form of corn supplied and the level of BMB inclusion had a significant interaction effect on the levels of triglycerides, urea, aspartate aminotransferase, and alkaline phosphatase. Babassu mesocarp bran can be included up to 41.24% in the diet of confined bulls without a negative effect on the animal weight gain. Corn should be supplied ground because this form improves the performance of crossbred bulls

The objective of this work was to investigate the ingestive behavior of sheep fed with different inclusions of babassu endocarp meal I. The animals receive isofibrous, isoenergetic and isonitrogenous diets containing the by-product in increasing levels of inclusion (zero; 7,5%; 15%; 22,5%). Twenty rams were used in this study and distributed in four treatments with five repetitions each. The ingestive behavior was conducted over a period of 24 hours, with visual observations at 5 minutes intervals and the variables being: idle, ruminating, feeding and chewing. The study demonstrated that the dry matter intake in function of the body weight and the metabolic weight decreased linearly as the babassu endocarp meal I was included in the diet. The feeding, ruminating and chewing efficiency when expressed in grams/dry matter/hour was reduced in a linear response with the different inclusions of the by-product. The ingestive behavior of feeding, idle, rumination and chewing activities in minutes/day was not altered in this study

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of grinding corn and inclusion of babassu mesocarp bran (BMB) in the diet of crossbred dairy young bulls finished in feedlot on their carcass and meat characteristics. Twenty-four young bulls were fed four experimental diets containing two BMB inclusion levels (0 and 41.24%) and corn in two forms of processing (ground and whole grains) for 98 days, and then slaughtered in a commercial packing plant. Among the quantitative carcass characteristics, there was interaction only in fat trimmings/whole hot carcass weight and cold carcass yield. The whole hot carcass and hot carcass weights showed reduced means with the use of whole corn. The other quantitative variables were not separately affected by BMB inclusion levels or by the form corn was processed. There was interaction between the factors for pistol cut weight, edible portion and weight of the cuts of the pistol cut, in which the use of whole corn and BMB promoted reduction in the mean values. The use of the whole corn grain reduced the participation of flank cut and elevated the participation of the bone fraction in the carcass. Inclusion of 41.24% of BMB did not change the qualitative meat characteristics, but the use of corn grain resulted in darker meat. The use of whole corn resulted in alteration in the weight of cuts like eye of rump and striploin, which have a high commercial value. There was interaction between factors for the percentages of moisture and minerals of the meat, whereas the crude protein content was affected by the two factors. The use of diets with whole corn or with babassu mesocarp bran may modify the carcass and meat characteristics of finishing crossbred young bulls.

The objective of the present study was to evaluate the effect of the use of babassu mesocarp meal (BMM) and corn in different physical forms on the feeding behavior of crossbred young bulls of a dairy breed. Twenty-four crossbred (Nellore vs. Holstein) steers (307.35 kg) were fed four experimental diets containing two levels of inclusion of the babassu mesocarp meal (0 and 412.4 g/kg) and corn in two physical forms (kernels or ground) for 98 days. Data was collected on three days during the finishing phase, with observations every five minutes, for 24 hours. When the activities performed by the animals were evaluated as a function of the period of the day, the physical form of the corn showed interaction with the BMM inclusion level on the time spent feeding and on other activities. When the activities were evaluated over the day, the defecation frequency was affected and decreased as BMM was included. The feeding time was longer at the moments that followed feed supply, whereas the time used for other activities increased during the morning period, regardless of the diet utilized. Rumination and idle times were affected by the period of the day and remained high during the night and morning periods. There was increase in feeding time and dry matter rumination efficiencies and neutral detergent fiber as BMM was added to the diet. The number of rumination chews per bolus, however, decreased as BMB was included. Inclusion of babassu mesocarp meal increases the animal feeding time but the physical form of corn does not change its feeding behavior.

This research was conducted to assess the ingestive behavior during 24 hours in eight periods of the day of 24 Limousin x Nellore young bulls in feedlot, fed with diets containing 0; 15; 30 and 45% of whole corn germ. At 9 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., the animals were fed with a roughage:concentrate ratio of 25:75. The inclusion of whole corn germ in the diets did not affect the time spent with food intake, sleeping and other activities, neither the frequencies of water drinking, urination and defecation. Food intake occurred more often during the periods when animals were fed, spending in average 137.10 minutes with this activity. Animals slept more during the night, from 2 to 5 a.m., whereas the time spent with other activities was higher from 5 to 8 p.m. Whole corn germ levels affected the rumination and leisure time in a quadratic form, with the 30% level showing higher rumination time (28.3% of the daily time), and lower leisure time (42.24% of the daily time). Animals submitted to different levels of whole corn germ showed distinct behavior for rumination, leisure, food intake, sleeping and other activities, and frequencies of water drinking, urination and defecation, during the different periods of the day. The inclusion of whole corn germ to the diet of bovines provides greater rumination time and modifies the distribution of this activity during the day.

Avaliaram-se as características da carcaça de 43 vacas de descarte da raça Purunã com idade média de 68,02 ± 17,36 meses em diferentes pesos de abate. O delineamento experimental foi inteiramente casualizado e os pesos de abate avaliados foram de 401; 434; 461; 476 e 522 kg. A elevação do peso de abate de 401 para 522 promoveu aumento do peso e rendimento de carcaça quente e fria de 34,7; 36,6; 2,1 e 5,13, respectivamente. A espessura de gordura subcutânea (mm) aumentou linearmente com o avanço do peso de abate, passando de 1,11 para 4,79 mm. A área do Longissimus dorsi expressa em função do peso de carcaça fria variou de forma quadrática com o avanço do peso de abate, com o menor valor estimado para o peso de abate de 440 kg. A quantidade de músculo, gordura e osso aumentaram 300; 330 e 69 g a cada quilograma a mais no peso de abate, respectivamente. A porção comestível da carcaça aumentou 34,1% com a elevação do peso de abate de 401 para 522 kg. A elevação do peso de abate representa grande potencial para o aumento da produção de carne no país, dado ao número expressivo de fêmeas de descarte que são abatidas anualmente. No entanto, para o sistema de produção, considerando o atual método de remuneração, o peso de abate de vacas de descarte não deve exceder as exigências mínimas dos frigoríficos, tendo em vista a redução da eficiência alimentar com o avanço da deposição de gordura corporal.The carcass characteristics of 43 livestock cows of the Purunã breed, with an average age of 68.02 ± 17.36 months and of different weights at slaughter, were evaluated. The experimental design was completely randomized, with slaughter weights of 401; 434; 461; 476 and 522 kg being evaluated. The increase in slaughter weight from 401 to 522 kg, promoted a gain in weight and in the hot and cold carcass yield of 34.7; 36.6; 2.1 and 5.13 respectively. The subcutaneous fat thickness (mm) increased linearly with increasing slaughter weight, going from 1.11 to 4.79 mm. The area of the Longissimus dorsi, expressed as a function of the cold-carcass weight varied quadratically with increasing slaughter weight, with the smallest value being estimated for a slaughter weight of 440 kg. The amount of muscle, fat and bone increased by 300; 330 and 69g for each additional kilogram of slaughter weight respectively. The edible portion of the carcass increased by 34.1% with the increase in slaughter weight from 401 to 522 kg. Raising the slaughter weight represents a great potential for increasing meat production in the country, given the significant number of female livestock slaughtered annually. However, based on the production system, and considering the current method of remuneration, the slaughter weight of livestock cows should not exceed the minimum requirements of slaughterhouses, in view of the reduced feed efficiency which accompanies increasing body-fat deposits.

The objective of this study was to identify the pattern of deposition of feces by supplemented crossbred dairy cows after the lactation peak on cultivated areas under levels of intensification of the system and its effects on nitrogen cycling, with the aid of geostatistics, in the rainy period. Treatments were composed of two levels of nitrogen fertilization (equivalent to 400 and 800 kg N/ha/year) and two types of animals, according to the daily milk production. Geostatistical and descriptive analyses of the data were conducted. The data presented positive coefficients of skewness and platykurtic kurtosis. For the coefficient of variation, there was elevated alteration, with rest areas showing higher values and paddocks with a higher level of fertilization showing lower values.The climate factors radiation, temperature and relative humidity significantly influenced the dispersion and location of feces. As to the degree of spatial dependence, the classification varied from moderated to strong. The range was from 14.0 to 12.7 m for the rest areas and paddocks, respectively. Fertilization and concentrate supply affected the deposition and loss of nitrogen via feces, elevating its values as the nutritional uptake is elevated. Fecal deposition showed heterogeneity, with areas of greater concentration such as shades, entrance of the paddocks and threshing floor, showing deposition peaks that reach 1,051.2 kg N/ha/year.

The objective was to evaluate the empty body components of cull cows slaughtered at different weights. It was used 43 Purunã cull cows mean age of 68.02 ± 17.36 months. The experimental design used was the completely randomized. The slaughter weights studied were 401, 434, 461, 476 and 522 kg. Empty body weight and yield increased 65.16 g and 0.0253% for each kg increased in body weight, respectively. The increase slaughter weight promoted linear increase of the absolute amount of noncarcass components. The weight of the gastrointestinal tract increased to 9.61 g per kilogram over the weight of slaughter, not being changed by the independent variable when expressed as percentage of empty body. The absolute and relative weight of internal organs varied linearly positive and negative with increasing slaughter weight, respectively. The increase in slaughter weight resulted in a linear increase of the set of internal fat, both expressed in kg and percentage of empty body. The set of external components increased 8.6 g per kilogram of slaughter weight increase. The increase in slaughter weight above the minimum requirements by refrigerators reduces the efficiency of the production system, due to the increased proportion of non-carcass components. Objetivou-se avaliar os componentes do corpo vazio de vacas de descarte com pesos distintos. Utilizaramse 43 vacas da raça Purunã com idade média de 68,02 ± 17,36 meses. O delineamento experimental utilizado foi o inteiramente casualizado. Os pesos de abate estudados foram de 401, 434, 461, 476 e 522 kg. O peso e o rendimento de corpo vazio responderam linearmente à elevação do peso de abate, aumentando 65,16 g e 0,0253% a cada quilograma acrescida, respectivamente. O aumento do peso de abate proporcionou aumento linear da quantidade absoluta dos componentes não carcaça. O peso do trato gastrointestinal aumentou 9,61 g a cada quilograma acrescida no peso de abate, não sendo alterado pela variável independente quando expresso em percentagem do corpo vazio. O peso absoluto e peso relativo do conjunto de órgãos internos variou de forma linear positiva e negativa, respectivamente, com o avanço do peso de abate. O aumento do peso de abate proporcionou aumento linear do conjunto de gorduras internas. O conjunto de componentes externos aumentou 8,6 g a cada quilograma acrescida no peso de abate. A elevação do peso de abate, acima das exigências mínimas dos frigoríficos, prejudica a eficiência do sistema produtivo, em virtude do aumento proporcional dos componentes não carcaça.

Nutrient intake and digestibility and productive performance of 30 feedlot young bulls fed diets containing babassu mesocarp bran in replacement of corn were evaluated. Animals were distributed in a completely randomized design with five levels of replacement of corn by babassu mesocarp bran (BMB): 0, 250, 500, 750 and 1000 g/kg of dry matter, and six replications. The dry matter (DM) intake in kg/day, g/kg body weight (BW) and g/kgBW0.75 increased as the corn was replaced by BMB. The intake of neutral detergent fiber (NDF) and crude protein (CP) increased linearly, whereas the intake of non-fibrous carbohydrates (NFC) had quadratic behavior. The digestibility of DM, CP, NDF and NFC and the total digestible nutrients (TDN) showed quadratic behavior with points of minimum digestibility of 850.0, 638.0, 867.0, 638.0 and 833.0 g/kg dry matter of replacement of corn by BMB, respectively. The final weight (476.82 kg) and average daily gain (1.55 kg/day) were not affected by experimental diets. The feed efficiencies of DM and CP decreased with increase in the levels of BMB, but the feed efficiency of TDN was not changed. Babassu mesocarp bran enables satisfactory performance, and depending on the price and opportunity cost, it can be utilized in the feeding of feedlot cattle totally replacing the corn of the diet.

The objective of this work was to determine the total carbohydrates fractions and to estimate the digestion rate of non-fibrous carbohydrates of agroindustrial byproducts by using the gas production technique. The agroindustrial byproducts evaluated were the following: cashew, passion fruit, pineapple, barbados cherry, annatto and melon, and each sample was incubated in quadruplicate. After mixing all contents thoroughly, the bottles were placed in an incubator at 39ºC, and connecting the lid of each bottle to a pressure sensitive switch, a solenoid valve and a vent stem connector. Gas pressure measurements were made at 0, 3, 6, 12, 15, 18, 22, 26, 30, 34, 40, 48, 60, 72, 96 e 120 hours post-inoculation. Blanks and an internal standard were included to enable adjustments in variation among readings. There was a high variation in nutritional composition of agroindustry byproducts, that cashew and annato presented the highest protein contents (159.3 and 135.3 g/kg of dry matter, respectively). Mellon and cashew presented the lowest values of total gas production (9.60 and 12.85 mL, respectively); and annato, pineapple and passion fruit presented highest gas volume (32.80; 28.16 and 22.54 mL, respectively), being the greatest percentages of phases from B2 fraction (64.27; 81.25 and 67.49%, respectively). Among the byproducts, pineapple and annatto stand out for the highest contribution of fibrous carbohydrate for total gas production, being B2 the main energy source for microbial growth, which is degraded at a slower rate than non-fibrous carbohydrate.Os objetivos deste trabalho foram determinar as frações de carboidratos totais e estimar a taxa de digestão dos carboidratos não-fibrosos de subprodutos agroindustriais, utilizando a técnica de produção de gás. Os subprodutos agroindustriais avaliados foram: caju, maracujá, abacaxi, acerola, urucum e melão, sendo cada amostra incubada em quadriplicata. Após mistura minuciosa de todos os conteúdos, as garrafas foram colocadas em estufa a 39ºC e foram conectadas a um interruptor sensível à pressão, com uma válvula solenóide e uma haste de ventilação. As medições de pressão do gás foram feitas a 0, 3, 6, 12, 15, 18, 22, 26, 30, 34, 40, 48, 60, 72, 96 e 120 horas após a incubação. Espaços em branco e um padrão interno foram incluídos para permitir ajustes na variação entre as leituras. Houve grande variação na composição nutricional dos subprodutos agroindustriais, sendo que caju e urucum apresentaram os maiores teores de proteína (159.3 e 135.3 g/kg de matéria seca, respectivamente). Melão e caju apresentaram os menores valores de produção total de gás (9,60 e 12,85 mL, respectivamente); e urucum, abacaxi e maracujá apresentaram maiores volumes (32,80; 28,16 e 22,54 mL, respectivamente), sendo os maiores percentuais da fração B2 (64,27; 81,25 e 67,49%, respectivamente). Entre os subprodutos agroindustriais, abacaxi e urucum destacaram-se pela maior contribuição dos carboidratos fibrosos para produção de gás total, sendo a fração B2 a principal fonte de energia para o crescimento microbiano, que é degradada em um ritmo mais lento do que os carboidratos não-fibrosos.

We evaluated carcass characteristics, weight and percentage of prepared commercial cuts of the primal pistol cut (PC) of 30 young crossbred bulls fed diets which included replacement levels (0, 25, 50, 70 and 100% of the dry matter, DM) of corn by babassu mesocarp bran (BMB). The experiment was a completely randomized design with six replicates. Slaughter weight was not affected by treatments. Hot and cold carcass weights decreased linearly (P

Objetivou-se avaliar o consumo, a digestibilidade aparente de nutrientes e o balanço de nitrogênio de dietas contendo farelo de mesocarpo de babaçu (FMB) em substituição à silagem de capim elefante (0; 21; 38; 62 e 78%). Utilizaram-se 20 ovinos alojados em gaiolas metabólicas individuais e distribuídos em delineamento inteiramente casualizado com quatro repetições. Foram coletados e registrados o consumo de alimentos e excreções de fezes e urina. Os consumos de matéria seca, matéria orgânica, proteína bruta, cinzas, fibra em detergente neutro, fibra em detergente ácido, hemicelulose e carboidratos totais não foram influenciados pelas dietas experimentais. Foi observada alteração nos consumos de carboidratos não fibrosos (CCNF) e redução nos consumos de extrato etéreo em % do PV e em gramas por unidade de tamanho metabólico (g UTM-1). O consumo de nutrientes digestíveis totais (CNDT) teve comportamento quadrático com pontos de máximo em 37,3 e 37,9% de FMB expressos em %PV e g UTM-1, respectivamente. As digestibilidades aparentes da matéria orgânica, fibra em detergente neutro, fibra em detergente ácido, proteína bruta e carboidratos não fibrosos reduziram na medida em que o FMB aumentou nas dietas. As digestibilidades aparentes da matéria seca (DAMS), extrato etéreo e carboidratos não fibrosos tiveram comportamento quadrático, com máxima DAMS estimada em 10% de FMB. O NDT reduziu 0,28% para cada ponto percentual de inclusão de FMB nas dietas. A adição do FMB reduziu a digestibilidade das frações fibrosas e aumentou o CCNF e o CNDT, o que indica que este subproduto pode ser utilizado como fonte energética em dietas para ruminantes.The objective of this study was to evaluate the intake, apparent digestibility of nutrients and the nitrogen balance of diets containing babassu-mesocarp meal (BMM) as a replacement for elephant-grass silage (0, 21, 38, 62 and 78%). Twenty sheep were used, housed in individual metabolic cages and distributed in a completely randomized design with four replications. Food intake was noted and faeces and urine excretions were collected and recorded. Intake of dry matter, organic matter, crude protein, ash, neutral-detergent fibre, acid-detergent fibre, hemicellulose, and total carbohydrate was not affected by the experimental diets. Changes were observed in the non-fibrous carbohydrates intake (INFC) and a reduction in the intake of ether extract as a % of live weight (LW) and grams per unit of metabolic body size (g MBS-1). Total digestible nutrient intake (ITDN) presented quadratic behaviour, with maximum points at 37.3% and 37.9% of BMM expressed as %LW and g MBS-1 respectively. The apparent digestibility of organic matter, neutral-detergent fibre, acid-detergent fibre, crude protein and non-fibrous carbohydrate decreased with the increase in BBM in the diet. The apparent digestibility of dry matter (ADDM), ether extract and non-fibrous carbohydrates showed a quadratic response, with maximum ADDM estimated at 10% of BMM. The TDN decreased by 0.28% for each percentage point of BMM added to the diet. The addition of BMM reduced digestibility of the fibres and increased both INFC and ITDN, indicating that this byproduct can be used as an energy source in ruminant diets.

The objective was to assess the performance of 96 pregnant cows of the genetic groups (GG) Charolais (C), Nellore (N), ½ CN and ½ NC, subjected to the following treatments: kept exclusively in natural pastures (NP) throughout the experimental period; kept in cultivated pastures (CP) from July 15 to Setp 15 (CPNP) or from Sept 15 to Nov 15 (NPCP) and the remainder of the experimental period in NP. The weight at the end of the first grazing period (Sept 15) was higher for the CPNP cows than those of the NPCP and NP. The weight at the end of the second period (Nov 15) was 456, 428 and 392 kg respectively for NPCP, CPNP and NP. At calving, the heaviest cows were the CPNP, followed by the NPCP and the NP. At weaning, 90 days postpartum, the heaviest were the NPCP, followed by the CPNP and NP. Nelore cows were less heavy in all evaluations, followed by C, with the F1s' weight higher than the purebreds. The grazing sequences did not affect the percentages of the cows in estrus and pregnancy, but did influence the invervals between calving and first estrus postpartum (ICE). The GG influenced the rate of cows in estrus, pregnant and the ICE which was lower in the F1 (103 days), followed by the C (109 days) and had the largest interval N (119 days). The grazing sequences affect the average daily weight gain (ADG) of calves until weaning at 90 days of age. The GG of the calf affected the ADG at to 210 days.

Objetivou-se avaliar quatro teores de inclusão de farelo do mesocarpo de babaçu (Orbygnya spp.) no concentrado sobre o desempenho de bovinos confinados. Foram utilizados 24 bovinos machos (12 castrados e 12 não castrados) com idade e peso corporal médio de 33 meses e 332,1±24kg, respectivamente. As dietas foram isonitrogenadas, compostas por 44% de silagem de capim Mombaça e 56% de concentrado na matéria seca. O grão de milho do concentrado foi substituído pelo farelo do mesocarpo de babaçu em 0, 20, 40 e 60% da matéria seca. O delineamento experimental utilizado foi blocos inteiramente casualisados, com os tratamentos dispostos num fatorial 4x2 (quatro níveis de inclusão de farelo do mesocarpo de babaçu e duas condições sexuais). O consumo de matéria seca, em kg dia-1 e percentagem do peso corporal, não foi alterado pelos níveis de inclusão de farelo do mesocarpo de babaçu, com valores médios de 9,37kg e 2,54%, respectivamente. Os teores de inclusão de farelo do mesocarpo de babaçu não influenciaram no ganho de peso diário e na conversão alimentar, sendo os valores médios de 1,157kg dia-1 e 8,39kg de matéria seca kg-1 de ganho de peso. Os novilhos não castrados apresentaram maior ganho de peso médio diário (1,259kg dia-1) que os castrados (1.066kg dia-1), refletindo a melhor conversão alimentar (7,702 e 9,094kg de matéria seca kg-1 de ganho de peso, respectivamente). O farelo do mesocarpo de babaçu como fonte energética alternativa, pode ser utilizado para bovinos confinados em até 60% de inclusão no concentrado, em substituição ao grão de milho.The objective was to evaluate four levels of inclusion of babassu mesocarp meal (Orbygnya spp.) in the concentrate on cattle feedlot performance. Twenty four animals (12 steers and 12 bulls) were used with age and body weight of 33 months and 332.1±24kg, respectively. Diets were isonitrogenous, composed of 44% of Mombasa grass silage and 56% of concentrate in dry matter. Corn grain of the concentrate fraction was replaced by babassu mesocarp meal at 0, 20, 40 and 60% in dry matter. The experimental design was randomized complete block, with factorial arrangement of treatments 4x2 (four levels of babassu mesocarp meal inclusion and two sexual conditions). Dry matter intake in kg day1 and percentage of body weight was not altered by the inclusion level of bran babassu mesocarp, with average values of 9.37kg day-1 and 2.54% respectively. Inclusion levels of babassu mesocarp meal did not affect daily weight gain and feed conversion the animals, with average values of 1.157kg day-1 and 8.39kg of dry matter kg-1 weight gain. Bulls had higher daily weight gain (1.259kg day-1) than steers (1.066kg day-1), reflecting a better feed conversion (7.702 and 9.094kg dry matter kg-1 weight gain, respectively). Babassu mesocarp meal, such as alternative energy source, can be fed to feedlot to the 60% level of inclusion in the concentrate, replacing corn grain.

Foram avaliadas a composição tecidual da carcaça e as características qualitativas da carne de 30 tourinhos mestiços (18,9 meses e 346,8kg iniciais) alimentados com dietas formuladas com diferentes proporções de farelo de mesocarpo de babaçu (Orbygnia sp.) em substituição ao milho: 0; 25; 50; 75 e 100% de substituição. Os animais foram abatidos com peso médio de 476,7kg. A porcentagem de músculo na carcaça aumentou de forma linear: 0,022% para cada ponto percentual de inclusão de farelo de mesocarpo de babaçu (FMB). Por sua vez, os percentuais de gordura e osso da carcaça variaram de forma quadrática, sendo a maior proporção de gordura observada quando a substituição de milho por FMB na dieta foi de 25% e a menor proporção de osso obtida com 50% de substituição. A relação porção comestível:osso foi maior com 42,5% de substituição do milho por FMB. À medida que se elevou a proporção de FMB nas dietas, houve decréscimo na espessura do coxão, escore muscular e compacidade da carcaça. A força de cisalhamento da carne teve acréscimos de 44kgf para cada ponto percentual de substituição do milho por FMB. Quanto à composição química da carne, verificou-se aumento no teor de matéria mineral. O uso de FMB em dietas de terminação de bovinos reduziu a maciez da carne, não alterando as demais características qualitativas.We evaluated the carcass composition and meat qualitative characteristics, of 30 young crossbred bulls (18.9 months and 346.8kg) fed with diets with different proportion of babassu mesocarp bran (BMB) (Orbygnia sp.); replacing corn: 0, 25, 50, 70 and 100% substitution. The percentage of muscle in the carcass increased linearly, 0.022% for each percentage point of including BMB and the percentages of fat and bone had a quadratic response in which adipose tissue has increased until the replacement of 25% and bone tissue decreased to 50% substitution. The ratio of edible portion: bone increased up to 42.5%. As the levels of BMB increased, a decrease in cushion thickness, muscle score and carcass compactness occurred. The shear force of meat was increased by 44kgf for each percentage point of corn replacement. For the physical-chemical composition we observed an increase in the meat mineral matter. The use of BMB in finishing diets for beef cattle reduced the tenderness of the meat, not altering the other qualitative characteristics.

The objective of the present study was to evaluate the feeding behavior of feedlot Nellore bulls fed two levels of concentrate (650 and 710 g/kg dry matter) with or without the inclusion of 350 g babassu mesocarp meal/kg dry matter in the concentrate. Twenty-eight animals at 18 months of initial age and 356.66±19.25 kg initial body weight were used. A completely randomized design was used with treatments in a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement. Increase in concentrate level from 650 to 710 g/kg dry matter did not change the feeding time, of 194.41 and 189.64 minutes/day, respectively. The inclusion of 350 g babassu mesocarp meal/kg dry matter in the concentrate increased the feeding time from 173.92 to 210.12 minutes/day, ensuring similar energy intake in relation to the diets without this byproduct. Rumination time was not changed by increasing the concentrate level in diets with 350 g babassu mesocarp meal/kg dry matter in the concentrate, with average values of 420.48 and 398.09 minutes/day for the levels of 650 and 710 g concentrate/kg dry matter, respectively. However, in diets without babassu mesocarp meal, the rumination time was reduced by the concentrate level, with average values of 452.14 and 409.76 minutes/day for 650 and 710 g of concentrate/kg dry matter, respectively. Time spent on other activities increased from 810.23 to 860.00 minutes/day with increase in the concentrate level, which was not changed in the diets containing babassu mesocarp meal. The inclusion of babassu mesocarp meal in the diet altered the feeding behavior of feedlot cattle, due to the need to increase the feeding time to maintain the energy intake.